NH gubernatorial candidates discussing tourism

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire's gubernatorial candidates are talking about tourism, one of the state's biggest industries.

It's the latest subject up for discussion between Democrat Maggie Hassan and Republican Ovide Lamontagne, who are vying for the seat being vacated by Gov. John Lynch. They're attending a forum on Wednesday morning in Concord. Previous forums and debates have focused on topics such as health care and business.

Direct spending by visitors to New Hampshire for fiscal year 2011 topped $4.2 billion.

Nineteen organizations from across the state representing restaurants and hotels, ski resorts, chambers of commerce and other groups are sponsoring Wednesday's event.